Page 18 - Grammar for Great Writing B

Common Errors

Common Error 1.1 Does the verb agree with the subject?

speak
The people of Northern Africa speaks French, Arabic, and some Italian.
is
The family are emigrating from the country because of the war.
have
Students in Canada has studied a second language for many years.

RemembeR: The verb must agree with the subject.

ACTIVITY 3 Common Error 1.1

Read each sentence. Underline the verb form that correctly completes each sentence.

1. Some nutritionists (define / defines) the United States as a “Fast Food Nation.”

2. Research has shown that pollution and asthma (is / are) related.
3. Since 1990, environmentalists (has developed / have developed) amazing tools to improve recycling
methods.

4. In this year’s national report, the biggest increase in crime (does not involve / do not involve) violent
physical crime but computer crime.

5. Social media companies (has continued / have continued) to experience significant growth.
6. In many western countries, the treatment of children with disabilities (is not / are not) different from
the treatment of able-bodied children.

7. The new in-house exercise programs (has benefited / have benefited) both the employees of the
company and the company itself.

8. Experts in business (considers / consider) honesty one of the most important qualities of a leader.

Common Error 1.2 Do you need simple present or present progressive?

tastes
Naan, a common Indian bread, is tasting delicious because it is cooked over a fire.

RemembeR: Stative verbs are usually in the simple present.

8 Unit 1 Writing about the Present

Copyright 2018 Cengage Learning. All Rights Reserved. May not be copied, scanned, or duplicated, in whole or in part. Due to electronic rights, some third party content may be suppressed from the eBook and/or eChapter(s).
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